Several Dead in Attack on Camp Housing Kashmir Tunnel Workers
A tragic incident unfolded in the restive Himalayan territory of Kashmir, India, as gunmen attacked a camp housing workers involved in a tunnel project. The attack resulted in the deaths of six construction workers and a doctor, while five others sustained injuries. This violent act took place in Ganderbal district, where militants opened fire indiscriminately on the workers, who were constructing a strategic road tunnel connecting the valley with Ladakh on the border with China.
The assailants not only carried out the shooting but also set fire to two vehicles belonging to the company working on the Z Morh tunnel in Gagangeer. This tunnel holds strategic importance as it links the regional capital Srinagar to Ladakh, an area where tensions between the Indian military and neighbouring countries like Pakistan and China persist.
Following the attack, authorities swiftly cordoned off the Gagangeer area and launched a search operation to apprehend the attackers. Kashmir’s police chief, Vidhi Kumar Birdi, confirmed that the victims included both non-local and local individuals. This devastating incident comes shortly after Kashmir saw the formation of its first elected government in ten years.
The recent attack marks the second targeting of workers from outside Kashmir since the new government assumed office. Just days before, a non-local worker was found shot dead in a maize field in southern Shopian district, with authorities attributing his demise to militant activity. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah denounced the assault on Sunday as a “dastardly and cowardly attack on non-local labourers,” emphasising the victims’ role in crucial infrastructure projects.
Amidst expressions of outrage and sorrow over the loss of life, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha vowed that those responsible for the heinous act would be held accountable. He affirmed that security forces have been given full freedom to take action against the perpetrators. Additionally, the federal road transport and highways minister condemned the attack, labelling it a “horrific terror attack on innocent labourers” contributing to vital infrastructure developments.
The aftermath of the attack saw grief and mourning sweep through the village of the slain doctor, Dr Shahnawaz Qadir Dar, whose family and community were left reeling from the tragic news. The profound impact of the loss was described by the doctor’s cousin, Tariq, who highlighted the collective sorrow that enveloped the village of Nadigam in Budgam district.
As investigations continue and authorities work to bring those responsible to justice, the attack on the camp housing Kashmir tunnel workers serves as a sombre reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in the region.